Gemma Collins returns to The Only Way Is Essex

Former 'I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!' contestant Gemma Collins will return to 'The Only Way Is Essex' for the Christmas special

Gemma Collins will return to 'The Only Way Is Essex' for the Christmas special.

The 33-year-old reality star is set to appear in the festive episode on ITVBe next month following her dramatic exit from 'I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!' after spending just 72 hours in the Australian jungle.

A source close to the 'TOWIE' star said: "Gemma's first thoughts after the jungle were to contact the producers and secure her spot in the end-of-the-year special.

"She's an Essex girl at heart, so that's where she feels at her most confident and best."

Before heading into the 'I'm a Celeb' camp earlier this month, Gemma had reportedly told friends she wouldn't return to the popular reality show until February, but according to the insider, the feisty blonde wanted to be "surrounded by her mates" as she copes with the aftermath of her messy break-up from Alex Moss, who she split from just days before entering the jungle.

Taking to the Daily Mirror newspaper, the source said: "She did think about taking some time off because she has been having such a difficult spell recently.

"But then she realised that she feels at her absolute best when she is surrounded by her Essex mates, in places she

knows and loves. That's where she can be the fabulous GC."

Gemma is reported to have called the police after Alex allegedly assaulted her just hours before she was set to fly to Australia.